The UK has been basking in some seriously hot weather lately, breaking records left and right. May kicked off with a bang, with temperatures climbing to a scorching 29.3C (84.7F) at Kew Gardens in London, surpassing the previous May 1 record set in 1990. And if that wasn’t enough, Thursday swooped in as the warmest day of the year so far, topping the charts at 26.7C (80F) in Surrey.
But hold on to your hats because the heatwave is about to come crashing down. Cooler weather is making its way down from the north, ready to bring those temperatures back down to a more manageable 14C to 18C across the UK by Friday and Saturday. Stephen Dixon from the Met Office warned us that the mercury will be taking a dip, especially in the southeast of England.
So, what’s causing all this heat? Well, apparently, it’s all thanks to the jet stream deciding to hang out up north, allowing high pressure to settle in and crank up the temperatures. Last month was also a doozy, with the sunniest April on record and the third warmest to boot. Rainfall was practically non-existent in some parts, with Tyne and Wear barely getting a drop.
Scientists are pointing their fingers at climate change for this balmy weather, saying that it’s making high temperatures way more likely. Maps from Climate Central show that human-induced climate change is turning up the heat across the country, with wildfires breaking out left and right. According to Copernicus, the UK has already seen over twice the amount of land burned this year compared to the yearly average.
As we head into the Bank Holiday weekend, temperatures are expected to plummet, but the risk of wildfires remains high. The London Fire Brigade is already on high alert, having dealt with over 160 water-related incidents this year alone. They’re warning folks about the dangers of swimming in lakes and rivers, especially with the cold water shock that can lead to drowning.
And let’s not forget about the heightened risk of grass and wildfires during this dry spell. Firefighters are already battling a massive wildfire in the Peak District, as the warm weather makes it easier for the flames to spread. The RNLI is also urging beachgoers to stick between the red and yellow flags when swimming at lifeguarded beaches to stay safe.
Drivers are also being cautioned about potential breakdowns on the road, as the heat can take a toll on vehicles. The NHS has reported a spike in searches for hay fever advice, as the warmer weather brings along those pesky allergies. It’s a wild ride out there, folks, so buckle up and stay safe.
